Rare 1940s radio set reunited with HMGCC
One of the first World War Two voice transmitters to be created and built by HMGCC has been uncovered.
The MK 17 voice transmitter was reunited with HMGCC after our historian was sent a message from the relative of an amateur radio enthusiast.
The message detailed the fact that the family had come across this prototype radio and purchased it sometime during the 1990s.
Our historian investigated the set further, only to discover that it was a rare item dating back to 1942.
It is believed to have been one of the earliest non-morse code devices HMGCC created for use to aid secret, wartime agent communications.
The HMGCC historian said: “I went to visit and found it was our kit from 1942. I explored our archive here at HMGCC and looked at our circuit diagrams. From analysing these, I realised the kit was a close match to the MK 17, part of the agent communication system.
“It appears that this is a prototype as we know the MK 17 usually came in a metal box. We think it was probably our first ever voice transmitter. We don’t know where or how this one was used”
This week marks the 88th anniversary of HMGCC. The function of this very radio was the original reason HMGCC was brought into being.
On the eve of war, we were created to help set up a new secure communications system through which encrypted messages could be safely sent without a reliance on morse code, which necessitated extra training.
Gadgetry and memorabilia from World War Two is often the haven for avid collectors as much of it was dispersed over the following decades.
It has sometimes been the case that HMGCC’s very early technology is spotted in auctions, on websites or even in sheds!
Follow the link below to see the video showing the MK17 prototype.